Pastoral Care Specialization

Pastoral Care Specialization

*This specialization is offered for the Master of Arts in Ministry and Master of Divinity programs.

Pursuing the Pastoral Care specialization program at Indiana Wesleyan University marks the beginning of an enriching path toward spiritual guidance and counseling, blending the convenience of an online ministry degree with the profound insights of pastoral care.

This program is thoughtfully designed to equip students for roles in pastoral ministry within both faith communities and para-church organizations, underscoring the essential practice of self-care as a cornerstone for effective spiritual leadership and support.

Through a curriculum featuring key courses such as Crisis Counseling for Ministry, Marriage and Family Counseling for Ministry, and Cross-Cultural Counseling for Ministry, students are prepared with the necessary skills to offer compassionate pastoral counseling across a variety of challenging life situations.

What Will I Learn in this Pastoral Care Program?

At the heart of Indiana Wesleyan University's Pastoral Care specialization at Wesley Seminary is a commitment to preparing spiritual leaders who can adeptly navigate the intricacies of human experiences with empathy, theological wisdom, and a deep understanding of pastoral counseling principles. This degree in ministry online delves into practical techniques for pastoral crisis intervention, principles of family systems theory, and the exploration of multicultural considerations in counseling, aiming to produce pastors and spiritual guides proficient in addressing the nuanced spiritual needs of diverse individuals and families.

Through this specialization, students gain a deep appreciation for the theological and scriptural foundations that inform the dynamics of marriage and family life, enriching their counseling approach with a spiritually grounded perspective. The emphasis on cultural, racial, and religious sensitivity ensures that graduates are well-equipped to offer inclusive and effective pastoral care, honoring the diverse contexts and backgrounds of those they serve.